College moves into former HSBC offices in Leeds

There is a growing focus on the education sector in Leeds according to Savills following the announcement that Elliot Hudson College would be moving into HSBC’s former offices at the White Rose Office Park.

This move follows the announcement of plans to turn KPMG’s former office building at No 1 Embankment into a secondary school for 600 students, whilst the Ruth Gorse Academy and the University Technical College opened their doors in Hunslet in autumn 2016. A Digital and Creative UTC was also announced last year.

This indicates that a new education district is emerging in south Leeds, says Savills, as educational institutions take office space previously used by corporate occupiers.

David Aspin, chief executive of Munroe K, joint owner of White Rose Office Park, said: “Universities and the Education Funding Agency are working together to position themselves as a positive combination, as Leeds strengthens its position as a regional centre for learning.”

Savills reports that in Leeds the typical move to residential for secondary office buildings is being outweighed by education institutions undertaking conversions in order to establish a city centre presence, making them more attractive propositions to prospective students.

Clare Bailey, associate director in commercial research at Savills, added: “Leeds is already very successful at retaining graduates, in part due to its great leisure, cultural and retail offer and relative affordability compared to London.

“The hope is that by closing the gap between education and the workplace, this will further help retain talent within the city and facilitate future growth.”